Two remarkable Pakistani female peacekeepers, Major Sania Safdar, and Major Komal Masood, have been honored with the Gender Advocacy Award by the United Nations Department of Peace Operations at its headquarters in New York. These courageous women have demonstrated exceptional dedication to promoting gender equality and peace while serving in some of the most challenging UN peacekeeping missions.
Major Sania Safdar, who was deployed in the UN Peacekeeping Mission in Cyprus, and Major Komal Masood, stationed in the Central African Republic, have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to promoting women’s participation in peacekeeping operations. Their work highlights the growing role of women in peacekeeping, as well as the importance of gender equality in maintaining global peace and security.
The award, presented by the Under-Secretary-General of the Department of Peace Operations, reflects their professionalism and commitment to advancing the ideals of the United Nations. Both officers have earned praise from their respective Mission Force Commanders, who acknowledged their key contributions to peace and stability in conflict zones.
Pakistan’s military media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), issued a statement celebrating this achievement, noting that the officers’ recognition underscores Pakistan’s commitment to UN peacekeeping. The ISPR emphasized the country’s long-standing role as one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions, with over 70 missions since Pakistan joined the UN in 1947.
In addition to this latest honor, Major Sania Safdar made history earlier in 2023 by becoming the first peacekeeper to receive the Certificate of Recognition for advocating gender equality while serving in Cyprus. This award continues to highlight Pakistan’s leading role in supporting the UN Peacekeeping mandate.
As Pakistan strengthens its legacy of supporting global peace initiatives, the accomplishments of Pakistani female peacekeepers like Major Sania Safdar and Major Komal Masood serve as shining examples of how women can play a pivotal role in international peacekeeping efforts. Their leadership and advocacy for gender inclusion have opened doors for more women to contribute meaningfully to peace and stability worldwide.
The recognition of these officers also aligns with Pakistan’s broader role in UN missions, including ongoing efforts in countries such as South Sudan. Recently, Lieutenant General Mohan Subramanian, Force Commander of the UN Mission in South Sudan, praised Pakistani peacekeepers for their unwavering dedication to ensuring peace and security in the region. Officers like Brigadier Shafqat Iqbal and Lieutenant Colonel Shahbaz Aslam were specifically commended for their leadership in protecting civilians, especially in flood-affected areas.
The continued acknowledgment of Pakistani peacekeepers’ contributions serves as a testament to the professionalism and resilience of the country’s forces in complex operational environments. Their commitment to the UN Peacekeeping mandate protects vulnerable populations and furthers the cause of global peace.
As the world recognizes the contributions of Pakistani female peacekeepers, it is clear that women like Major Sania Safdar and Major Komal Masood are helping to shape the future of UN peacekeeping operations. Their work not only brings honor to Pakistan but also sets a powerful example of how gender equality can foster more inclusive and lasting peace solutions across the globe.
